Honda’s been teasing a bike it calls the “Next Racing Standard 250” online for ages, but today they’ve finally released a more detailed image (above) and a sound clip (below). It’s believed that the Honda NRS250 will begin racing next year, entering the four-stroke 250 Moto3 class when it replaces 125GP in 2012.

What you’re listening to, if it complies with Moto3 rules, is a four-stroke 250cc single-cylinder with a bore of 81mm and a 14,000cc rev limit. It can’t have more than four valves and variable timing is not permitted. This engine should be putting out something in the low 50bhp range and will have to power a total rider/machine package that can’t weigh less than 148kg/326lbs.